Chapter 4 Post (due Oct 10)

INPUT- what you enter into the memory of the computer. It is categorized into data, programs, commands, and user responses. "Data is a collection of unorganized facts." The computer then organizes it into words, numbers, etc. A program tells a computer how to perform tasks. They respond to commands issued by a user. A command is an instruction given to a program. It's given by using keywords that serve as cues to the program to perform tasks. User responses involve a program asking a question and depending on the response it performs (or doesnt) certain tasks. In order to input into the computer you need input devices. These devices are any technology that allows you to put information into the computer. Input devices include keyboards, mouses, scanners, digital cameras, etc.

On the other side is output. Output is the processed input of the computer. It comes it different forms such as text, graphics, videos, and other comprehendable uses. Output devices include screens, printers, and faxes.

From reading some of my peers posts, I have learned that many of us are in the same position. While we know the basics of what we are doing, we have been learning faster and easier ways to perform different tasks on the computer. Also, I was glad to hear that many others were not aware of how the internet functioned before the past units. I think that we are all on pretty much the same page with technology.

By understanding how computers function, I can make sure that I use the most efficient way to get things done. This way if something seems to be wrong or if there is a faster way to accomplish tasks I will know how to do that. I can also incorporate newer technology such as digital cameras in my classroom to give students different ways to express the information in class. Also, I have been finding new little tasks that Microsoft Word can do and its fun to mess around with all the interesting things involved in the program. These shortcuts can save me time in putting together whatever I need to complete. I havent had much exposure to PowerPoint so I am looking forward to learning about it in the coming weeks.